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Sex attack police to visit every home in Sabden

DETECTIVES hunting a man who sexually assaulted a 14-year-old girl are to visit all 629 homes in Sabden in the hope someone has vital clues about the crime.

Hyndburn CID said they would also be visiting all known sex attackers living in and around the area as they seek to catch the attacker.

DI Jill Johnston said: “We are widening out our investigations with the priority of identifying and speaking to all known sex offenders in the area.

“I intend to extend the house-to-house inquiries and speak to all households in Sabden in case there are residents who have not seen the recent press appeals.

“I also have high visibility patrols scheduled for 7.30am on Monday, exactly one week on from the attack, as well as extra patrols in the area to reassure local residents we are doing everything we can to catch this man.

“I urge anyone with information or anyone who has seen anyone acting suspiciously to contact police.”

The youngster was walking along Padiham Road when she was grabbed by her attacker – who had been following her for a short distance.

He put his hand over her mouth and after pulling her along the driveway tried to force her to take down her trousers.

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The brave girl refused and fought him off as he attempted to undress her.

Police said the attacker then gave up and ran off up Padiham Road towards Simonstone Road.

The ‘shellshocked’ girl ran in the opposite direction while calling her mum on her mobile phone.

Officers are also investigating the possibility the attack is linked to an incident of indecent exposure two-and-a-half miles away in Church Street, Padiham.

During the incident on February 5, a man shouted to attract the attention of a 15-year-old girl at a bus stop before exposing himself Some headteachers in the area have issued safety warnings to pupils.

The Sabden attacker, described as having a deep voice with a local accent, was wearing trainers, dark-coloured jogging pants and a dark hooded top with brown gloves.